Although this species can also be used for the same cooking purposes as traditional German Winter Thyme, it is more popular as a dense, creeping ornamental for landscaping. Plants provide extra dwarf matted foliage 3-5 in/8-13 cm high. Leaves are very small, dark green, aromatic with small flowers in shades of pink or purple. Plants are used as fillers between pathway steps, rock gardens or ornamental borders for formal herb gardens. Creeping thymes are grouped as "Mother of Thyme" to distinguish them from their upright, taller growing family members. All types of thyme are edible and may be used in soaps, medicines, perfumes, sachets, and incense as well as cooking.

CULTURE: Sow indoors Apr. 1st into 3 in/8 cm peat pots at 6 - 8 seeds per pot. Press seed into the surface and cover lightly with fine soil. Keep seed flat in the dark until the seed germinates. Seed germinates at about 50% in 14 - 20 days. Grow plants at 70°F/21°C thin seedlings, if needed, 30 days after seeding. Trim plants after flowering. Plants like warm, sandy soil, good drainage and plenty of sun. Replant every 3 years, mulch lightly for winter protection.